STATEMENT

Rep. Capuano's Statement Regarding the Death of Former Libyan Leader Moammar Gadhafi

October 20, 2011

“The death of former Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi is an important milestone in the lives of the Libyan people who have been rallying for freedom for months. There is no disputing that Gadhafi was a tyrant who committed atrocities against his own people and the world is better off without him. I hope that the Libyan people will quickly find their way toward a more effective, inclusive government.

“For me, the issues surrounding Libya were never about whether Gadhafi was a bad guy  he was. For me, this was very simply about the role of Congress in declaring war. I still firmly believe that the Constitution entrusts Congress  not the President acting alone  to decide when to use America’s military might. I do not believe that the President fulfilled his obligation to seek Congress’ approval with respect to military operations in Libya.

“I also want to make it very clear that my concerns go beyond one President and one war. There will be other Presidents and there will be other places they may want to use our military. There is no more important matter than war and peace, and the Constitution is very clear on this matter. That being said, I congratulate the Libyan people on their dedication to seeking greater freedom and representation, and I urge them to keep that spirit in mind as they move to rebuild their country.”